Can generate movement as a blocker with proper use of leverage and active feet

Unlocks explosion when entering blocks

Smooth gait with good stride length to accelerate down the field

Does a good job selling his chips before releasing downfield

Has the play speed to challenge vertically and up the seams

Can maintain possession when forced to adjust

Fluid ability to adjust and play the ball when it’s in the air

Possesses a noticeable catch radius with the ability to extend to errant throws with control

Weaknesses:

Size will likely limit him to move-tight end responsibilities

Offense schemed him open the majority of the time

Very marginal route strength makes it difficult to create separation

Works to the second level, but doesn’t bring an attacking mindset

There are some balance issues as a runner

Occasionally leads with his shoulder rather than engaging his hands in his run fits

Too often catches defenders, allowing them to take control

Struggles to play with his feet under him in his routes and run fits, causing him to overextend

Bad habit of slowing his feet as he approaches defenders

Originally an all-state quarterback from Oregon, Hollister spent the first year of his collegiate career as a redshirt freshman at Nevada in 2012 before transferring to Arizona Western Community College for the 2013 season where he transitioned to tight end. Hollister’s 32-515-7 line lead all Mountain West tight ends en route to first team All-MW honors this past season.

The age of the versatile tight end is among us and Hollister is one that deserves some recognition. He sports the desirable build and frame to be flexed out, placed in the backfield as a full back or line up as an H-Back. Wyoming did a fantastic job lining him up in the slot on trips sets where they would release down the middle and challenge safeties with his running ability or put him in a bunch set where they could intertwine route combos and grant him a free release. His length creates a weapon that can go and get most passes within reach while Wyoming capitalized on his running ability with screens and underneath releases that got him the ball in space to generate YAC.

As good as his build is, Hollister likely isn’t going to be asked to spend much time in-line as blocking Mountain West defenders and blocking NFL defenders aren’t quite the same; the power to generate movement or secure the edge doesn’t appear to be present enough for the next level. His run fits are maddeningly inconsistent, and it’s clear he’s still learning the nuances of the position. While a good runner, the acceleration tops out rather quickly and the long-speed won’t look nearly the same at the next level and requires open field to get there. Hollister is also still learning the finer points of route running, including the ability to defeat physical defenders throughout the route.

Pro comp: Wes Saxton

Draft projection: UDFA

There are some innate traits to work with in Hollister, but his skill set and size aren’t captivating enough to warrant a selection. Some teams may get creative and find a way to get him on the field, but the majority of them are going to stay away from a raw prospect who can do things many of the other tight ends in this class can, but with more development and repetition. Hollister falls victim to a good class, but with a strong Pro Day or combine performance, he could sneak his way into the seventh round.